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Health Information

Definition

The pancreas is a long, flat, pear-shaped organ located behind the stomach. It makes digestive enzymes and hormones, including insulin.
Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that occurs suddenly and resolves with proper treatment.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor will ask how much alcohol you drink and what medications you take. Diagnosis can be determined by your symptoms and results from blood tests.

Treatment

Treatment for acute pancreatitis depends on the severity of the attack and what is causing it. For example, if medication is the cause of your pancreatitis, your doctor may change to a different medication or adjust the dose.

In most cases, acute pancreatitis isn't severe and can be treated. Treatment includes:

Hospitalization

Generally, acute pancreatitis treatment requires hospitalization. Fluid and nutritional support can be given by IV while your pancreas heals. During this time, you will be unable to eat or drink. Supplemental oxygen may also be given.

If you have severe pancreatitis, you may need a nasogastric tube. A long, thin tube is threaded through your nose and into your stomach for feeding.

You may also start treatment for any underlying causes of your pancreatitis.

Medications

Your doctor may recommend:

Antibiotics—to treat any infections

Pain medications

Protease inhibitors—to reduce the effects of digestive enzymes

Insulin—to help regulate blood glucose levels

Surgery

In general, surgery isn't necessary for mild pancreatitis. It may be necessary when medical treatment doesn't work for more severe cases. Surgery may also be used to treat underlying conditions.

Surgical procedures include:

Necrosectomy—Removal of dying or dead (necrotic) pancreatic tissue. Pancreatic necrosis is more serious if an infection is present. This procedure can also be done with endoscopy.

Percutaneous catheter drainage—One or many thin tubes are inserted into the abdomen to drain fluid from the pancreas.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.